11/10/2020, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas
This is the first of only two National parks in Texas. We didn't have any camping reservation as we rarely do, but to our surprise, the campground was first come first served. So, we were able to secure a spot. Most people come here to hike the highest peak in Texas, Guadalupe Peak 8,751 ft (2,667m). Because it was a very windy and cold day we decided for a shorter hike " The Devil's Hall". And it turned out it was a good choice. Agaves, prickly pear cacti, cholla and yuccas are abundant in this area. It reminded us of the Sonoran Desert in Arizona. The only thing that's missing here are the Saguaro cacti.
11/13/2020, Big Bend National Park, Texas
Big Bend National Park is one of the most remote parks in the United States. It runs along the Texas-Mexico border created bythe Rio Grande River. It is a long way from any civilization. The name Big Bend comes from a large bend in the Rio Grande River along the park boundary. The Chisos Mountains was our favorite area here. After a quick visit and just one hike we had to leave. Too many people were in the park and not enough camping spots available.
Due to Covid-19, one campground was closed and two others reduced the number of sites. We were a little disappointed but we fully understood the situation and the reasoning. Unfortunately National Parks struggle with a crisis; just too many visitors.
